The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is set to become the most environmentally damaging tournament in its history. With 48 teams playing 104 matches across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States, the event will generate over nine million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). This figure nearly doubles the emissions of previous World Cups from 2010 to 2022. The tournament’s expansion and multi-continent hosting have intensified concerns about its climate impact.
Environmental Impact of Expanded Tournament
The 2026 World Cup’s growth to 48 teams and 104 matches has drastically increased emissions. Air travel for teams, officials and fans is the largest contributor. More matches mean more stadium operations, transport, and waste generation. The multi-country format adds long-distance flights between venues. This expansion has made the tournament the most carbon-intensive in nearly a century of FIFA World Cups.
High-Carbon Sponsorships and Additional Emissions
FIFA’s global sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabian oil giant Aramco will add to the carbon footprint. The promotion and sales linked to this partnership are estimated to generate an extra 30 million tonnes of CO2e in 2026 alone. This figure dwarfs the direct emissions from the matches and travel combined, denoting the indirect environmental costs of corporate sponsorships in sports.
Heat Stress and Climate Risks at Venues
Six stadiums face severe heat stress risks during the tournament. Four venues, including AT&T Stadium in Dallas and NRG Stadium in Houston, will experience extreme temperatures and hazardous conditions. Houston’s stadium is threatened by heat, flooding and wildfire risks simultaneously. Los Angeles and Miami venues face wildfire smoke and hurricane threats respectively. These risks endanger players, fans and staff, requiring urgent environmental and safety measures.
Cross-Continent Hosting and Future Tournaments
The 2026 World Cup continues FIFA’s trend towards multi-country hosting. The 2030 tournament will be spread across six nations on two continents, increasing travel emissions further. The 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia is projected to produce 8.6 million tonnes of CO2e. These trends raise questions about the sustainability of large-scale global sporting events and the need for stronger climate action by organisers.
Calls for Climate Responsibility
Scientists and environmental groups urge FIFA to reduce the tournament’s carbon footprint. The growing climate crisis demands immediate action to limit emissions from travel, infrastructure and sponsorships. Without intervention, future World Cups risk exacerbating global warming and public health threats linked to extreme weather. Sustainable planning and green technologies are essential for the sport’s long-term future.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the environmental impacts of large-scale international sporting events like the FIFA World Cup and suggest sustainable alternatives.
- Explain the role of corporate sponsorships in increasing carbon footprints of global events and discuss regulatory measures to mitigate these effects.
- What are the challenges posed by climate change to public health during mass gatherings? How can event organisers address these risks effectively?
- With suitable examples, comment on the implications of multi-country hosting of global tournaments on carbon emissions and international cooperation on climate action.
